The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency issued an advisory to residents on Friday due to the threat posed by Hurricane Sandy.

Advertisement

PEMA officials offered the following storm preparedness advice:

Families should prepare for two scenarios in the event of severe weather: to remain in their homes during the duration of a storm, or to evacuate if it is recommended or ordered by local authorities.

Residents should always have enough provisions in their homes to last at least 72 hours because help from emergency responders may not be immediately available when severe weather strikes.

Other disaster preparedness supplies to have at the ready include:

Flashlights and extra batteries;

Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries;

First aid kit and manual;

Emergency food and water;

Non-electric can opener;

Essential medicines/prescriptions;

Cash, credit cards and important legal documents; and

Sturdy shoes.

A News 8 viewer offered the following tips if stores are out of items like water, flashlights or batteries.

Daniele Brown

Consider that large office supply stores sell bottled water and electric supply retailers and auto part stores often have flashlights.

Need a generator? Then try wedding planners. They often have them available for rental.

If residents are ordered by local officials to evacuate, they should do so without hesitating and should take important documents with them, including:

Checkbooks;

Driver's license

Credit card information

Birth certificates

Social Security cards

Other forms and documents proving ownership/identity.

For more information on how to make a disaster supply kit and how to prepare for all kinds of emergencies, visit www.readypa.org or call 1-888-9-READYPA (1-888-973-2397).

Cannon reminded drivers they should never drive into low-lying areas or over roads and bridges that are already under water. Just a few inches of moving water can sweep away the average car. Remember – Turn around, don’t drown.

“Personal preparedness is an essential part of emergency response and recovery,” Cannon said. “The fact that we know about the potential threat we’re facing several days in advance is a gift that we can all take advantage of, so we can make sure we are ready for whatever comes our way.”